South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir Mayardit has expressed his full support for the new Director General of the National Security Service (NSS), Gen Akec Tong Aleu.
Speaking to his press unit during the swearing in ceremony at State House in Juba on Thursday, President Kiir directed Gen Aleu to meet the challenges ahead with determination.
“The responsibility you have today is very heavy. You have to be careful and increase your capabilities. You have to deal with all the problems. We will not leave you alone in these difficult times. We will try to help you solve your problems in daily work,” Kiir said.
He added: “There are people who will insult you and others will abuse you, but don’t pay attention to them. You have to work hard. You have to continue to do that. You were faced with many problems in the field. Many very difficult problems.”
The Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs, Gen Chol Thon Balok, urged the security chief to address the challenges in the sector, in politics and in the economy.
“I am sure you will do it. I say may God be with you. In addition, we will support. We have challenges in security, in politics, in our economy, but with commitment, we hope to succeed,” said Balok.
Former Presidential Affairs Minister Nhial Deng Nhial urged Gen Aleu to protect the constitutional system, the leadership and the citizens’ lives and property.
“Your first task is to protect the state’s constitutional system. Second, you protect the state’s legislative leadership. Third, you protect the citizens’ lives and property. Fourth, you defend the country and the territorial integrity of the state. Focus on these things and don’t worry about what people say,” said Nhial.
“Focus on your efforts so that you can carry out your task properly. I am confident that you will succeed because you have already shown mercy and that your work in the public sphere can be done well,” he added.
President Kiir sacked the powerful and long serving spy chief Gen Akol Koor Kuc on Wednesday night.
Gen Kuc became head of the feared NSS after independence in 2011 and continued throughout the bitter civil war that followed.
No reason was given in the presidential decree that announced his removal, which was read on national TV – but he has been made governor of the president’s home state of Warrap, where insecurity is rife.
Analysts say it may signal a power-struggle in Kiir’s inner circle – with some believing Gen Kuc was possibly being lined up to one day take over from the 73-year-old president.